28 THE TEMPEST.

 

in his proper shape as the Duke of Milan. Because they repented, he
forgave them and told them the story of his life since they had cruelly
committed him and his baby daughter to the mercy of wind and waves.
Alonso, who seemed sorriest of them all for his past crimes, lamented the
loss of his heir. But Prospero drew back a curtain and showed them
Ferdinand and Miranda playing at chess. Great was Alonso’s joy to
greet his loved son again, and when he heard that the fair maid with
whom Ferdinand was playing was Prospero’s daughter, and that the young
folks had plighted their troth, he said—

“Give me your hands, let grief and sorrow still embrace his heart
that doth not wish you joy.”

So all ended happily. The ship was safe in the harbour, and next day
they all set sail for Naples, where Ferdinand and Miranda were to be
married. Ariel gave them calm seas and auspicious gales; and many
were the rejoicings at the wedding.

Then Decent! after many years of absence, went back to his own
dukedom, where he was welcomed with great joy by his faithful subjects.